Director or Vice President of Retail Operations

Our client, a mission-driven retail organization with a strong community presence, seeks an experienced Director or Vice President of Retail Operations to lead a large-scale, multi-location retail and donated goods enterprise. This leader will oversee a network of stores, e-commerce operations, and distribution centers, driving growth through operational excellence, innovation, and people development.

The ideal candidate is a proven retail executive who combines financial and strategic acumen with a passion for elevating people and performance. This is an opportunity to influence a high-impact organization that blends business discipline with social purpose.

Job Duties

• Provide strategic and operational leadership for 27+ retail stores, an outlet location, attended donation centers, and a growing e-commerce operation exceeding $6M in annual sales.
• Oversee distribution, logistics, and sustainability functions, ensuring efficiency, productivity, and alignment with strategic growth goals.
• Translate organizational strategy into actionable business plans and measurable results at the store and regional levels.
• Implement process improvements and change management initiatives that enhance profitability, customer experience, and employee engagement.
• Develop and mentor district and director-level leaders, fostering a culture of accountability, care, and performance.
• Utilize key performance indicators (KPIs) and operational data to guide decision-making, improve throughput, and optimize inventory flow.
• Partner cross-functionally to prepare for store expansion and distribution center growth initiatives.
• Champion operational excellence and continuous improvement across retail and e-commerce channels.

Qualifications

Must Haves:

• Minimum 10 years of progressive operational leadership in high-volume retail or donated goods environments.
• Demonstrated expertise in multi-site retail management, inventory control, and P&L ownership.
• Strong financial skills, including budgeting, forecasting, and margin management.
• Proven success in strategy execution, project leadership, and vendor management.
• High emotional intelligence with the ability to coach and develop leaders at multiple levels.
• Bachelor's degree in Business Management or a related field.

Desired:

• Master's degree preferred (required for VP-level consideration).
• Leadership experience with major national or value retail chains (e.g., off-price, discount, or thrift sectors).
• Experience leading e-commerce, logistics, and/or sustainability initiatives within a retail organization.

Key Competencies:

• People-focused and collaborative leader.
• Forward-thinking, analytical, and proactive problem solver.
• Skilled communicator with the ability to navigate complex change.
• Data-driven, strategic decision-maker with high personal energy and resilience.